RESIDENTS should be extra vigilant when locking up their homes and leaving their cars, warn police, if Southport is to buck an increase in burglaries.

Over the last six weeks, authorities have witnessed a rise in thefts from dwellings and vehicles across the town, but especially around the town centre.

And north east neighbourhood inspector Martin Woosey is especially concerned as many are occurring in insecure properties.

He added that two police officers had even worked on their days off to try and arrest the culprits.

Another reason for increasing theft statistics is the rise of bogus burglaries.

More sophisticated than breaking-in, crooks imitate workmen to gain access to a property before distracting the homeowner and making off with their possessions.

Inspector Woosey said: “We’ve had two bogus burglaries where people pretend to be workmen and gain entry to places.

“If you don’t know who’s coming to the door, don’t let them in and challenge them to show identification.”

The neighbourhood inspector, speaking at last week’s area commitee meeting in Southport Town Hall, said he feels like “he’s constantly beating his head against a brick wall” when it comes to in-car satellite navigation systems.

He said: “Don’t leave them in the vehicle when you are not with the vehicle.

“They are very easily taken and very easily sold on.”

Inspector Woosey warned motorists to ensure any traces of sucker marks are also removed from the windscreen.